RNLI lifeguards return to Thanet beaches ahead of May Half Term

From Saturday 24 May 2025, RNLI lifeguards will be returning to Thanet’s main beaches; every day at Margate Main Sands, Botany Bay, Viking Bay and Joss Bay in Broadstairs.

Lifeguards will be on duty over weekends and bank holidays on Minnis Bay, Westbrook Bay, Ramsgate Main and Stone Bay, until Saturday 19 July. From Saturday 19 July, lifeguards will be on duty at these beaches everyday between 10am – 6pm until 7 September.

St Mildred’s and West Bay beaches in Westgate-on-Sea will also have RNLI lifeguards full-time from Saturday 19 July.

Figures reveal that in 2024, RNLI lifeguards saved 15 lives, as well as dealing with over 1,930 incidents and assisting nearly 2,284 people in the south east of England alone.

Beth Williams, Lead Lifeguard Supervisor for Thanet, said: ‘Our lifeguards have spent the last few weeks going through their inductions and training hard in preparation for the season ahead. They are excited to be returning to beaches in Thanet, doing what they do best, offering preventative advice and an excellent lifesaving service.’

If you are heading to the beaches in the coming weeks, we strongly advise that you choose a lifeguarded beach. Speak to our lifeguards for advice and information on the local beach environment including tides, sea state and weather conditions.

Beth has further advice for beachgoers: “It’s important to remember that the water is still cold and we’d ask everyone to be prepared for whatever water activity you have planned by always having a means of calling for help and checking the weather forecast and local hazard signage to understand local risks.”

Cllr Steve Albon, Cabinet Member for Cleansing and Coastal Services at Thanet District Council, said: “In Thanet, we have been working in partnership with RNLI since 2012. Ensuring the safety of the many local people and visitors who enjoy our beaches is of the utmost importance, and RNLI’s lifeguards play a key part in this, each summer.

“I would encourage anyone who visits any of our lifeguarded beaches to familiarise themselves with the beach flags and safety information right at the start of their day. Knowing where the lifeguard station is and listening to any instructions they might issue is very important. Water-safety, especially somewhere you don’t know well, should be taken very seriously.”

When visiting the beach this summer remember:

• Visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags
• Keep a close eye on your family - on the beach and in the water - don't allow your family to swim alone.

• If you fall into the water unexpectedly, FLOAT TO LIVE. Find out how here: Float To Live – What To Do In An Emergency – RNLI

Notes to editors

- RNLI lifeguards return to West Bay (East) and St Mildred’s beach from 19 July.

- To learn more about RNLI lifeguarded beaches visit: RNLI Lifeguards In The UK And Channel Islands

RNLI media contacts

For more information please contact Sam Carragher, Communications Placement – South East on [email protected] or contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789.

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.

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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.